CIO - on Demand

To BE or Not to BE.

All Business executives live this question when it comes to making decisions involving Information Technology and/or Information systems.

It is the balance between Business and Technology that throws Business Owners and Managers out of the window. For business executives - the investment decisions for the IT always 'occur' as walking in the air where there is a failure to see several quantifiable justifications which is possible in other investment decisions.

Specifically for SMEs, who can not afford to have dedicated IT strategist - and they run their business through internal IT staff of one or two techies, should consider using the services of IT strategist who can work with their business from long term perspective and partner the 'boss' in ensuring that sound IT investment strategy is in place. ALL on the basis of needs without full time commitment on Payroll.

This way - SMEs can gain huge advantages generally available to Large enterprises with the availability of CIO. It would almost be like having a part time dedicated CIO available on demand. The concept of 'CIO-on Demand' will pick up as more and more SMEs realise the benefits of sound IT strategy in place for their business.

Every Business Owner/Manager knows the results of the investments without strategy in place. Much strategy prevails over little strategy. IT is no different from this general rule of life. Having a sound IT strategy in place will allow sound IT investment decisions and return on the capital invested in IT resources.

We have identified following benefits of using 'CIO-on Demand'.

1. Have a CIO only when you need it and only for the time you need it.

2. Have a benefit of a full-time IT executive without the cost of in-house IT Executive (and yes they are expensive!!!)

3. Determine which technological investments will pay off is like looking in to crystal ball – having a 'CIO-on Demand' can resolve this crystal ball question.

4. Use appropriate and skilled resource to train/mentor potential in-house staff in developing strategic vision and objectives for the IT and so develop future IT leadership capability in-house.

5. Risk management of Systems that are critical to your business and are locked in the proprietary technology with the vendor who does not meet your current or strategic objectives but it is too expensive to walk away.

6. Get someone on your side to negotiate large investment projects and contracts with the vendors who generally are looking after their self interest and may 'rip you off'.

7. Have a confidence in your IT investment decisions which are backed by sound advise based on the good strategy aligned with the core business objectives.

There are several other benefits that I can discuss but these are the core areas where a major value can be gained by Small and Medium Enterprises by using the services of someone who is IT Strategist and willing to work as 'CIO-on Demand'.

Any inquiries, Questions, Request for assistance & your thoughts - most welcome.